Three things you never knew about Nordic Walking with Dogs

Nordic Walking with dogs?

Let’s face it. If you’re reading this blog it’s likely that you’re a little puzzled. You may or may not have heard about Nordic Walking. But with dogs? Why on earth would you want to do that?
There’s no reason you should know. Don’t feel bad about it. This thing’s so new we think we’re the first people to be delivering it. Ever.
Allow me to explain all …

1. Nordic Walking is brilliant for you

Nordic Walking is a specific technique walking with poles. It was developed by Nordic Skiers during the off-season to keep them fit and I’d imagine it does a brilliant job of that. Not only does it exercise 90% of the muscles in the body, it can also burn up to 63% more calories than walking alone, increase upper body endurance, decrease neck and shoulder tension and increase back strength. And it does all of this whilst feeling easier than walking alone.
Not only that but it has also been shown to have wide reaching psychological benefits. Recent studies have shown that ‘green exercise’ – being active whilst connecting with nature – is extremely effective at preserving our mental health.
The beauty of Nordic Walking is that it is great for everyone – whatever their level of fitness, age or ability

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2. Dogs love it too

When I first started Nordic Walking with my dog, Harvey, I noticed that he seemed even more excited when he saw the walking poles, than he would be if I just got his lead out.
Maybe it’s that feeling of us moving and working together or the extra pace I am able to inject with the poles, or that he just loves that feeling that he is working whilst he’s trotting away in front of me.
There’s no doubt about it. Harvey just loves it and your dog probably would too.

Harvey reminisces about some great Nordic Walks we have had

Nordic Walking is great for dogs that:
• Are rehabilitating from injury
• You might be nervous to let off the lead
• Dogs that have that urge to work. (That’s actually most of them, by the way)
• Dogs that don’t socialise too well

3. It’s fabulous for you and your dog to do together

Nordic Walking with your dog is a brilliant way of increasing your rapport with your dog. It’s a fabulous activity for anyone that wants to invest that little bit more in their dog.
During our day training programme (or two half days if you prefer) we teach you everything you need to know to start your Nordic Walking doggie adventure.
We have a dog behaviourist on hand to show you how to get your dog to respond to your Nordic Walking commands and your body language. She can also answer any questions you might have about your dog’s general behaviour.
We’ll be delivering courses in the West Midlands and we are prepared to come to you anywhere in the country if there is sufficient interest.

So if you’d be interested in having a go why not email me, Sam Axtell, at info@wolfrun.org.uk or telephone 07842 153831